Frequently Asked Questions
What does it mean to become a signatory to our Call to Action?
Signing the Call to Action does not in itself make you a member of the Buddhist Coalition for Democracy, nor does it mean that you will approve of everything the Buddhist Coalition for Democracy may say or do in the future. It means you are willing to take a courageous stand and endorse democratic ideals and principles at a time of grave peril.
It means you agree: 1) that democracy is endangered by the governmental actions enumerated in the Call, 2) with the Basic Principles as enunciated, and 3) with the resolutions listed at the conclusion.
Who can become individual member of the Buddhist Coalition for Democracy and what Is the cost?
Becoming a member is as simple as sending us an email telling us you want to join.
We invite all Buddhists who support democratic ideals, norms, institutions, and processes to become members. At this point there are no dues.
Can my sangha become a Call to Action signatory and/or Coalition member?
Yes. Sanghas may also become Call to Action signatories and/or members of the Coalition. A sangha that wants to become a signatory and/or member agrees to support democratic ideals, norms, institutions, and processes. Sanghas are also invited to participate collectively in Coalition initiatives and actions. To become a member, an authorized representative of the sangha should email us, requesting to be listed as a signatory and/or member.
Can I become a signatory and/or member if I’m not a United States citizen or live outside of the United States?
Any Buddhist concerned about the state of democracy in the United States is welcome to sign or join. In addition, Buddhists in other countries have asked about establishing affiliate organizations in their countries. We have not yet established a process for authorizing or formalizing affiliate organizations.
What are the benefits of membership?
Members receive our newsletter and updates about meetings and events. Members are also eligible to serve on committees and contribute to decisions affecting the Coalition.
Being a member allows you to be part of a like-minded community of socially engaged Buddhists committed to preserving democracy.
How can I help the Coalition?
You can volunteer to serve on one of our committees. We currently have a Coordinating Committee, Communications Committee, Outreach Committee, and Action Committee.
You can help spread the word of our existence. Please share our website address and invite others to join us.
How can I donate financially to the Coalition?
We are unable to accept donations at this time. We are in the process of incorporating as a non-profit organization, and once we’re incorporated you will be able to make donations through a portal on our Donate page.
What actions or activities might the Coalition undertake?
Depending on situations as they arise, the Coalition may potentially engage in: 1) efforts to educate and raise public awareness, 2) letter writing and lobbying campaigns to support and encourage elected officials and community leaders to stand up for democratic principles, the rule of law, and protecting the vulnerable, 3) collaborations with civic, religious, legal, and political organizations that share our vision, 4) nonviolent demonstrations in support of democratic ideals, basic decency, the rule of law, protecting the planet, and preserving human and civil rights, 5) non-compliance and passive resistance when confronted with illegal, immoral, and unconstitutional government demands, and 6) the provision of educational programs in conflict resolution and non-violent action.
Where and when are upcoming Coalition actions or activities?
As our members are located all over the United States, we envision actions that are both local and national in scope. We endorsed participation in the April 5th Hands Off! and April 19th No Kings demonstrations throughout the country. We are also supporting efforts to free Mohsen Mahdawi, the former president of the Columbia University Buddhist Association, from detention and prevent his deportation. Future actions will be proposed by the Action Committee and endorsed by the Coordinating Committee. Members will be notified of actions through our newsletter, website, and social media platforms.